Salik Fee Exemption in UAE: Eligibility and Application Process

Dubai has launched a toll exemption initiative, enabling qualifying residents and their immediate family members to request a waiver on Salik road toll charges. This program aligns with the city’s commitment to enhancing accessibility, inclusivity, and the overall quality of life for its residents.

Who is Eligible for a Salik Fee Exemption?

Individuals with any of the following conditions can apply for an exemption from Salik toll charges:

• Mental disabilities
• Physical disabilities
• Autism
• Visual impairments

In addition to individuals with disabilities, their immediate family members may also be eligible for the exemption. The relationships that qualify include:

• Parents
• Spouse (marriage certificate required)
• Children (birth certificate required)
• Grandparents
• Siblings
• Grandchildren

These eligibility criteria ensure that first- and second-degree relatives can submit applications on behalf of individuals of determination.

Required Documents for Salik Toll Exemption

Applicants must provide the following documents when applying for a Salik fee exemption:

• A copy of the valid vehicle registration card, either under the name of the person of determination or an eligible family member.
• A copy of the applicant’s valid Emirates ID.
• A valid People of Determination card issued by the Ministry of Community Development or a Sanad card from the Community Development Authority.
• A document proving the relationship (for first- or second-degree relatives) if the vehicle is not registered in the name of the person of determination. This document must be sent to specialaccounts@salik.ae.

How Long is the Salik Exemption Valid?

The exemption remains valid for one year and must be renewed annually to prevent any penalties.

• During renewal, applicants must resubmit all required documents.
• If replacing or changing a vehicle, the individual must provide a cancellation form for the previous exemption along with updated documents.

Steps to Apply for Salik Fee Exemption

Residents can submit their applications through the Salik website or via email.

Applying Through the Salik Website

1. Fill in the required details and upload the necessary documents.
2. The Special Accounts team reviews the request.
3. Once approved, the applicant will receive a notification via phone.

Applying Via Email

1. Download the commitment form from the Salik website or request it by email.
2. Complete the form and attach all required documents.
3. Send the application to specialaccounts@salik.ae.
4. The Special Accounts team will verify the submission and process the request. Once approved, the applicant will be informed.

Limits on Salik Fee Exemptions

• If the applicant has not previously purchased a Salik tag, they can receive one free of charge after requesting the exemption.
• Only one vehicle per person of determination can receive the exemption. However, the exemption can be transferred to another vehicle upon request, provided the previous exemption is canceled.
• The exemption service is free, and applications are processed within five working days, provided all submitted documents meet the eligibility requirements.

Understanding How Salik Works in Dubai

Salik is Dubai’s electronic toll collection system, utilizing RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology to automatically charge vehicles as they pass through toll gates. The system is fully automated and does not require toll booths or barriers, ensuring a seamless flow of traffic.

• Whenever a vehicle drives through a Salik toll gate, the system scans the Salik tag and deducts the toll fee (either Dh6 or Dh4, depending on the time of travel) from the driver’s prepaid Salik account.
• A Salik tag costs Dh100, which includes Dh50 in credit upon activation. If purchased online, an extra Dh20 fee applies.
• Motorists can top up their Salik accounts online or at participating retail outlets. Failure to maintain an adequate balance may result in penalties.

Salik Toll Rates and Pricing Variations

Dubai’s Salik system implements dynamic pricing based on peak and off-peak hours:

• Peak Hours (Weekdays: 6 AM – 10 AM, 4 PM – 8 PM): Dh6 per toll gate.
• Off-Peak Hours (Weekdays: 10 AM – 4 PM, 8 PM – 1 AM): Dh4 per toll gate.
• Toll-Free Hours (1 AM – 6 AM daily).
• On Sundays, except for public holidays or major events, toll charges remain Dh4 all day, with toll-free passage between 1 AM and 6 AM.

Salik Toll Gates in Dubai

As of January 2025, Dubai has ten Salik toll gates, following the addition of two new gates at Business Bay Crossing (Al Khail Road) and Al Safa South (Sheikh Zayed Road). The complete list of Salik toll gates includes:

1. Al Barsha
2. Al Garhoud Bridge
3. Al Maktoum Bridge
4. Al Mamzar South
5. Al Mamzar North
6. Al Safa
7. Airport Tunnel
8. Jebel Ali
9. Business Bay Crossing (new)
10. Al Safa South (new)

The Salik system plays a vital role in managing traffic congestion across Dubai while providing exemptions for eligible individuals to foster a more inclusive transportation network.